Exceleration Music, the prominent global music company dedicated to advancing the future of independent music announces the acquisition of Mack Avenue Music Group, the globally celebrated collection of jazz labels known for its exceptional roster of artists and award-winning catalogs.
This deal strengthens Exceleration Music’s commitment to both legacy and new jazz artists, as it already owns the legendary, multiple Grammy® award-winning, Candid Records. Post acquisition, Mack Avenue’s operations will be integrated with Candid Records to form Exceleration’s overall jazz group and will be led by current Mack Avenue President, Denny Stilwell. This collective jazz group will also feature a team of other key executives from both Mack Avenue and Candid Records.
Founded in 1999 by Gretchen Carhartt Valade, a passionate jazz fan and former chair of the American apparel brand Cathartt, Mack Avenue has been a driving force in the jazz world, delivering high-caliber releases from an esteemed lineup of artists. Key artists include Christian McBride, Cécile McLorin Salvant, and Kenny Garrett. Mack Avenue’s labels have earned several dozen Grammy® nominations and awards, making the company a hallmark of excellence within the music industry.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Denny, his team, and the incredible Mack Avenue artist roster into the Exceleration family,” said John Burk, Partner at Exceleration Music. “The combining of Mack Avenue and Candid Records represents an important step in our mission to build the ultimate independent label home for today’s greatest jazz artists. Together, we will continue to honor the labels’ remarkable heritages while providing the resources and expertise to help our artists reach new heights.”
“Joining forces with Glen, John and the like-minded team at Exceleration is a
transformative opportunity for Mack Avenue and our unique artist roster,” said Denny Stilwell, President of Mack Avenue Music Group. “With Exceleration’s support, knowledge and enthusiasm, we are confident our special brand as artist advocates will thrive as we continue to bring this fantastic music to the world.”
The acquisition includes Mack Avenue’s extensive catalog and its active roster of artists, ensuring their music reaches an even wider audience while retaining the unique essence that has made the label a standout in the industry. Exceleration Music plans to leverage its robust distribution, marketing, and technological resources to enhance Mack Avenue’s global impact.
This acquisition exemplifies Exceleration Music’s unwavering commitment to preserving and advancing independent music culture, ensuring that iconic labels like Mack Avenue continue to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.
